Victory Day over Nazism in World War II
Victory Day over Nazism in World War II has been a public holiday in Ukraine since Soviet Days. The date of the holiday is 9 May each year.
Victory Day remembers the surrender of Nazi Germany to the Soviet Union at the close of World War II. It was instituted throughout the Soviet Union immediately after the war, though it was not an off-work day until 1965, and even then, not in all parts of the Soviet Union.
When Ukraine gained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, it still continued to celebrate 9 May and all it stood for, minus any pro-Communist elements that might have attached to it.
Still today, many celebrate Victory Day by paying respects to living Ukrainian war veterans, having a “moment of silence” for deceased war heroes, attending patriotic music concerts, listening to the presidential Victory Day speech, and attending fireworks displays. Flowers are also laid at the tomb of the unknown soldier in Kiev.
Previous Years
Year | Date | Day | Holiday |
---|---|---|---|
2023 | 9 May | Tue | Victory Day over Nazism in World War II |
2022 | 9 May | Mon | Victory Day over Nazism in World War II |